The original rifle - as identified by the Old Gun Smith - was chambered in 30-06.

The 7.62x51 round was not designed and adopted (which was for the U. S. M14 rifle) until about 1956 or so.

Therefore, the rifle has been re-done. That is probably (I'm speculating here) when the bolt was turned down; that seems to be a later style fad. The straight out handle is more convenient for fast cycling, but tends to get in the way more when carrying. Straight bolt handles also tends to get in the way of mounting a 'scope.

The only "BNP" mark I know is the British Birmingham Nitro Proof, so somehow England was involved. Can you show pictures of the top of the receiver ring and the left side of the action, and the caliber marking?

Some FN Mausers were barreled or rebarreled at the factory for the 7.62 NATO and sold to Israel. Possibly over runs from previous contracts.

Some FN manufacture Mauser bolts hand a too sharp corner at the left hand lug which caused some to crack at one leg of the split lug. recommended repair was to fit a surplus 98K bolt. Don't know what production range was affected, possibly a later commercial sporter action rather than a military contract.

The 7.62x51 round was not designed and adopted (which was for the U. S. M14 rifle) until about 1956 or so.

7.62X51 was originally designed in 1945, designated as T-47 in 1947 for use in the experimental T-25 and T-47 and T-48 rifles, which later evolved into the M-14 rifle. The M-14 was officially adopted in 1959. In 1952, Winchester commercialized the cartridge as the 308 Winchester. The barrel was stamped 10-58. No surprises there either.

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